The next generation of gaming has made it easier than ever to convert a set of headphones into gaming hardware. Simply by using the DualShock 4’s headphone jack or the Xbox One’s controller adapter, any headphones can be used for gaming purposes. This has opened up a whole new world for gaming audiophiles — a world that includes some of the best corded headsets available on the market.

One of those is the V-MODA M-100, a headset that is well respected in the music community. You may have seen the M-100 headset on the ears of some of your favorite DJs, but music isn’t the only type of sound these headphones do well. Thanks to the headphone jack on your console’s controller and a separate microphone attachment, the M-100 doubles as a gaming headset.

Care for the Craft

Out of the box, the first thing users will notice is the hard-shelled, padded case. Not only does the foldable set fit in nicely to be carefully put away, it also serves as a way to take the headset on the go without the fear of tangling up wires or dropping the earphones. An attached Carabiner clip allows owners to attach the case to a backpack or luggage for quick access. This is a seemingly small gesture, but it shows the care V-MODA puts into its products.

Taking the M-100 out of the packaging reveals an elegant look and smooth finish. The padded steelflex headband is outshined by customizable sleek metal shields on the exterior of the ear cups. (The company also recently announced the availability of custom 3D-printed shields for an even more unique look.) Ditching the flashy, bulky look of most modern headsets, the V-MODA has a more understated, mature design that could equally be an accessory for listeners of Mozart or Jay Z. The heavy duty exterior frame and comfortable interior materials combine to make the M-100 outperform competitors in both quality and durability.

Gaming the System

In order to be used for gaming, the M-100 requires a boom microphone attachment that is sold separately. Aside from the extra mic purchase and a few additional wires that people using this headset strictly for gaming will likely never use, setup is just as simple as any other gaming headset.

The M-100 headset comes with a hard-shell case.

The stretchable headband fits ergonomically onto the listener’s head, but the ear cups can feel bulky at first. However, after spending some time with the M-100, users will notice the padded ear cups begin to form to their head and isolate outside noises. Players will begin to feel a new level of immersion as they audibly unload loud rounds of bullets in Call of Duty or experience the aural bliss of an engine shifting gears while playing racing games.

Surprisingly, the detachable mic doesn’t provide the same level of quality. In fact, it might be too good. During my testing, other players reported that they heard me breathing and could detect when I was moving my head. This did not hinder my own experience, and it’s difficult to know if these players would’ve mentioned these issues if I had not asked, but it is disappointing considering the superior sound quality.

Music to My Ears

The M-100 is advertised as the “number one choice for DJs” on Amazon, and it is easy to see why it is held in such high regard. It is one of the best headsets I’ve used when listening to music. Sound quality is excellent, as the headset delivers crisp tones and thumping bass. The clear, pure sound makes listeners feel like they’re right in the studio with the artist. For high-quality, professional sound, the M-100 performs better than its popular competitors.

The V-MODA M-100s deliver impressive sound.

Putting the headset to the ultimate test, I decided to use it while taking a phone call. The issue with the microphone popped up again, as callers could hear wind blowing. It also failed to completely cancel the phone’s mic as callers reported hearing the phone swishing around in my pocket. On the user’s end, though, the caller came in just as good if not better than when using the phone’s built-in speaker.

Overall

The M-100 has a high price tag, but it is worth it for those who want to hear sound at its finest. When it comes to music, the M-100’s performance is top notch. Its use for gaming is secondary in nature, so the cords and microphone add-on might turn off those looking for a dedicated headset. However, the sound quality makes up for any missteps. Because of that high quality sound, the V-MODA M-100 earns Gaming Illustrated’s Editor Choice Award.

The M-100 earns an Editor’s Choice award.

In the gaming community, V-MODA doesn’t have the same cache as Steelseries or Polk Audio, but the M-100 delivers high quality sound for all types of use.

The V-MODA M-100 headset was reviewed using a pair of headphones and accessories provided by the manufacturer.

Ryan Bloom

Ryan Bloom is a writer and avid gamer from Orange County. He received a B.A. in Communications with a minor in American Studies from California State University, Fullerton in 2010. Follow him on Twitter @BloomsTweets.

I really like the design of this headset. The large ear-cups is definitely a plus for audiophiles as well as for gamers. You’re right about the add-on cords and microphone being a turn off for gamers… but if you want a headset for both listening to music and gaming, then M-100 is a solid addition to the headset market.